Proud Alwayarre woman Louise Gilbey and proud Bandjin and Djakunda man Josiah Little have achieved two important milestones that are helping strengthen culturally safe diabetes care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

黑料网 has reinforced its commitment to empowering the First Nations diabetes workforce with the appointment of Ms Gilbey as an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Facilitator. At the same time, Mr Little, employed by Queensland Health, has become the first male Aboriginal Health Practitioner in Australia to qualify as a Credentialled Diabetes Educator.

To mark Close the Gap Day, 黑料网 is highlighting the achievements of these outstanding individuals.

Ms Gilbey, based in Mount Isa, brings more than 20 years of frontline experience supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across rural and remote Queensland. She made history in 2024 as the first Aboriginal Health Practitioner to qualify as a Credentialled Diabetes Educator. Her new role with 黑料网 is focused on delivering education to health professionals and communities across regional and remote Australia.

Ms Gilbey said the role fulfilled a long-held ambition to strengthen diabetes education where it is needed most.

鈥淚 applied for this position because it fulfils my dream of travelling to rural and remote areas to provide diabetes education to health professionals and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members,鈥� Ms Gilbey said.

鈥淧romoting prevention and management strategies is something I feel very passionate about. 黑料网 is a respected national organisation and I鈥檓 proud to be part of it and continue my learning journey.鈥�

In a further milestone for the First Nations health workforce, Mr Little, who was born and raised in Bundaberg, completed postgraduate diabetes education and the required hours of supervised clinical practice to become a CDE. His achievement builds on Ms Gilbey鈥檚 historic credentialling and strengthens culturally informed diabetes care for First Nations communities.

Mr Little said family, culture, and community remain central to who he is, shaping both his personal values and professional practice.

鈥淯ltimately, my goal is to support a health system that values Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leadership, embeds cultural capability at all levels, and delivers better health outcomes through genuine partnership with community.鈥�

黑料网 Group CEO Justine Cain said both achievements represented a significant step forward in improving health outcomes and strengthening the First Nations diabetes workforce.

鈥淟ouise and Josiah represent the future of diabetes care in Australia, with strong cultural knowledge, deep community connection, and advanced clinical expertise,鈥� Ms Cain said.

鈥淯nfortunately, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are more than three times as likely to live with diabetes and are more likely to experience serious complications. Expanding the number of First Nations Credentialled Diabetes Educators is essential to addressing these urgent challenges.

“Culturally safe care delivered by First Nations health professionals improves trust, engagement, and outcomes.

鈥淟ouise鈥檚 leadership in delivering education across rural and remote Australia, and Josiah鈥檚 historic achievement as the first male Aboriginal Health Practitioner to become a CDE, will help ensure more people receive care that is culturally appropriate, trusted, and effective,鈥� she said.

ADEA CEO Melanie Morris congratulated Ms Gilbey and Mr Little on becoming CDEs and their career choices.

“We are incredibly proud of Louise and Josiah鈥檚 achievements,” Ms Morris said.

“As the impact of diabetes continues to be felt across communities, particularly Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, growing a culturally safe and community-connected specialist workforce is essential to ensuring people can access high-quality education and care close to home.

“ADEA is committed to supporting more First Nations health professionals to gain credentialling as it is an important step toward strengthening self-determination and delivering care that is culturally informed and community led.”

The CDE title is awarded by ADEA through a structured national credentialling pathway that combines postgraduate study in diabetes education, supervised practice, mentoring and workplace-based assessment to ensure consistent, high professional standards.

In a further development amplifying leadership in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander diabetes workforce, 黑料网鈥檚 Lead Diabetes Educator for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Engagement, Aunty Grace Ward, an Adjunct Fellow at the University of Technology Sydney, was part of the UTS team who was recently recognised for the pioneering 鈥淲alking Together: a Parallel Practice鈥� model. The model is delivered as part of the UTS Graduate Certificate in Diabetes Education and Management, an ADEA-accredited program that forms a step within the ADEA鈥檚 credentialling pathway to become a CDE.

ADEA Vice President Dr Shannon Lin, also a Senior Lecturer and Diabetes Course Director at the UTS, Professor Lynn Sinclair, Dr Wenbo Peng, and Aunty Grace received an AAUT Citation for Outstanding Contributions to Student Learning for 2025 for the model.

The AAUT, coordinated by Universities Australia, recognises excellence and innovation in learning and teaching across the higher education sector, with citations recognising individuals or teams who have made a significant and sustained contribution to improving the quality of student learning.

Learn more about the ADEA credentialling pathway to become a CDE:

This National Reconciliation Week (27 May 鈥� 3 June), 黑料网 is highlighting the importance of improving type 2 diabetes care and prevention for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

黑料网鈥檚 first Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), the Reflect RAP, reflects the spirit of this year鈥檚 theme, Bridging Now to Next – which calls on Australians to learn from the past, act in the present, and work towards a better future – through its commitment to ongoing relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations.

黑料网 is urging the diabetes community to look forward and walk together to improve health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and their families, living with, or at risk of diabetes.

黑料网鈥檚 annual National Gathering of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health professionals and those working in the field was held in Melbourne this month and again was an important opportunity to celebrate achievements and discuss opportunities and challenges.

As part of its ongoing commitment to national milestones, 黑料网 also recognises important calendar dates such as . Staff are encouraged to take part in local events and deepen their understanding of Australia鈥檚 shared history and the importance of reconciliation.

The organisation also continues to prioritise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in its advocacy work, including the “Unite in the Fight for Tech” campaign. This ongoing initiative calls for improved access to diabetes technology for groups in greatest need, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Smaller-scale projects are also underway, including efforts to support food security in remote communities and exploring new collaborations with organisations active in education and community outreach.

For 黑料网, this NRW provides an opportunity for our community to focus on the knowledge that prevention and the prevention of complications can protect future generations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people from the impact of living with type 2 diabetes. That work is a significant priority as we continue the journey of reconciliation.

Peak diabetes organisations are urging the Federal Government to act now and prioritise access to diabetes medicines for Aboriginal communities in rural and remote areas.

黑料网, Australian Diabetes Society and Australian Diabetes Educators Association are calling for prioritised access to vital medicines for Aboriginal communities where rates of type 2 diabetes are the highest in the world.

黑料网 Acting Group CEO Taryn Black said the global shortage of GLP-1 agonists like Ozempic is having a serious impact on the diabetes community, particularly in parts of Australia where rates of type 2 diabetes are disproportionately high.

鈥淎boriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are more than three times as likely to live with diabetes and nearly five times more likely to be hospitalised with diabetes-related complications,鈥� Ms Black said.

鈥淲e know that new medicines like GLP-1 agonists are highly effective, so we need to ensure that they are available in areas of most need.

鈥淚n Australia, that means prioritising access for Aboriginal communities in rural and remote areas where high rates of type 2 diabetes are having a devastating impact on peoples lives,鈥� she said.

Grace Ward, Elder Advocate at 黑料网 and Kamilaroi-Yuwaalaraay diabetes educator, said the burden of disease from type 2 diabetes in Aboriginal communities was a major issue with up to 40% prevalence rates in Aboriginal adults in Central Australia.

鈥淲orryingly, the age of diagnosis is also getting younger,鈥� Ms Ward said.

鈥淭his week we recognised National Close the Gap Day. Health equity is a key theme of closing the gap. 

鈥淕overnments should prioritise working with communities, seeking solutions to address the barriers to the wellbeing of Aboriginal people living with type 2 diabetes, by providing access to critical diabetes medicines including GLP1-s.聽

鈥淭his would improve diabetes management and prevent complications,鈥� Ms Ward said.

Australian Diabetes Society CEO Sof Andrikopoulos said newer medications need to be provided to remote communities without restriction.

鈥淎ccess to diabetes medicines needs to be provided without delay to Aboriginal communities in central Australia in particular, in order to address the significant burden of disease in these communities,鈥� Mr Andrikopoulos said.

Australian Diabetes Educators Association CEO, Susan Davidson, said credentialled diabetes educators (CDEs) are working hard across the country to support people living with diabetes but medicines are essential.

鈥淐DEs provide support for the use of GLP-1s, as well as advice on exercise and healthy eating.

鈥淭he prioritisation of GLP1鈥檚 for Aboriginal communities where there is highest need will support health professionals in providing the critical care that is needed for people living with diabetes,鈥� Ms Davidson said.

If you are living with diabetes, looking after your feet is an important part of staying healthy.

Foot problems can be a common complication of diabetes. Your feet are at risk because diabetes can cause damage to the nerves in your feet and poor blood circulation, leading to infection.

Why do I need to look after my feet? 

Staying aware of the risks and taking care of your feet can prevent serious issues like foot ulcers and even amputations of toes, feet or limbs.

Australia has the second highest rate of diabetes related amputations in the developed world. Rates are particularly high in rural and remote settings, and amongst Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The good news is, around 85% of diabetes related amputations are preventable if wounds are detected early and managed appropriately.

黑料网 would like to thank Bush Tucker Bunjie and Jarrod Harbrow for producing these videos and helping get the word out about diabetes-relates foot complications and the impact on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Watch the video: Looking after you feet and preventing diabetes related complications.

How can I look after my feet? 

Watch the video: Bush Tucker Bunjie shares some top tips for looking after your feet.

Tip 1 – Keep your blood glucose levels in check 

Stable blood glucose levels will help to lower the risk of foot problems.

High blood glucose levels over time can cause nerve damage which makes it hard to feel sensation in your feet. This lack of sensation can mean that you might not feel it if you have injured your feet. If you are having difficulty keeping your blood glucose levels within your target range, talk to your healthcare worker, doctor or diabetes educator.  

Tip 2 – Wash and check your feet every day 

Take care of your skin

Wash your feet every day. If you live in a dry and dusty environment, you may need to wash and check your feet more regularly. Be sure to dry all areas thoroughly, especially between the toes.

Apply moisturiser every day but not between the toes. Keep the area between your toes dry to reduce the risk of getting fungal infections. 

Check your feet daily

Get to know your feet and check them every day. This is especially important if you live in rural or remote areas of Australia with a hot climate, as this may cause sweating and increase risk of blisters and ulcers.

Daily checks of your feet are important to catch any changes in the look and feel of your feet. Use a mirror or ask a family member or carer to help if you have trouble reaching your feet.

Check all areas of your feet including the soles and between the toes. Look for:  

• dry skin or excessive moisture  
• thickened skin, such as calluses or corns  
• breaks in the skin, such as cracks, blisters or ulcers  
• signs of infection, including redness or darker skin than usual  
• any change in the shape and thickness of your nails, and any in-grown nails  
• any change in the shape of your feet, such as bunions or claw toes.  

Tip 3 – Look after callouses and corns if you have them 

Corns and callus are areas of hard skin that build-up due to abnormal pressures occurring in the foot. It is important to care for these, as they can cause damage to your skin.  

Firstly, find a pumice stone, some fine sandpaper, or a pot scourer to help reduce the thick skin. Avoid using over-the-counter corn cures as they can cause ulcers in people with diabetes. Put your feet in some water with soap, then gently rub the area of thick skin. Do this a few times until it feels smooth.

After you have dried your feet, you also need to moisturise them. Every day, rub it into your skin, but not between your toes. If this does not help, you should organise an appointment at your local health clinic to have the hard skin checked. Don鈥檛 wait for your annual visit because if untreated, these injuries may not heal due to lack of blood supply and infection.  

Tip 4 – Treat any sores or cuts on your feet  

If you notice any sores or cuts, it is important to treat them.  

If you find a cut, blister, sore, red area or open crack, you should immediately:  

• wash and dry the area  
• apply a good antiseptic such as Betadine, then  
• cover with a band aid or sterile dressing, available from pharmacies or your local healthcare clinic.  

If the injury doesn鈥檛 improve within 24 hours, make an urgent appointment at your local healthcare clinic. It could help you avoid serious complications. 

Tip 5 – Protect your feet with good shoes and always wear socks 

Your feet need protection so they don鈥檛 get cut and damaged from things you might walk on.

Always wear some kind of footwear, and make sure your shoes fit, otherwise they can hurt your feet and make them worse. If wearing closed end shoes, make sure you wear socks to help prevent blisters. And remember to change your socks every day to prevent infection, especially if you have a sore or cut.

Before putting on your shoes, make sure they don鈥檛 have any stones in them, and they don鈥檛 have any torn lining that could rub on your feet. Closed end shoes are best, but any kind of footwear is better than nothing, even if it鈥檚 thongs.  

Tip 6 – Get your feet checked every 12 months even if you think they鈥檙e ok 

Every year you should have your feet checked by a health care worker, doctor, diabetes educator or podiatrist. This will help you catch the signs early and prevent damage before it starts. 

At your check-up, your health professional will look at:  

• blood flow to your feet (circulation)  
• feeling and reflexes (nerves)  
• unusual foot shapes (bunions, claw toes, hammer toes)  
• toenails  
• dryness, calluses, corns, cracks or infections.

If you look after your feet, they will look after you.  

This educational program is supported by a sponsorship provided by Abbott. 

Widely-respected Kamilaroi-Yuwaalaraay diabetes educator Grace Ward has been appointed to the position of Elder Advocate at 黑料网.

The newly established leadership and advocacy position will provide cultural advice and guidance directly to the executive and leadership team, as well as across the organisation.

黑料网 Group CEO Justine Cain said Ms Ward鈥檚 appointment to this important new role would contribute to improving the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with diabetes, and those at risk.

鈥淕race鈥檚 previous experience at the Menzies School of Health Research and then at Diabetes Queensland has equipped her with a wealth of knowledge in facilitating innovative culturally-appropriate First Nations diabetes education programs. 

鈥淭his is a critical area of focus for 黑料网 and I can think of no one better suited to take on this leadership role,鈥� Ms Cain said.

Ms Ward said she was passionate about building a better future for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people and reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

鈥淭o achieve better health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, it is imperative that programs and resources are developed and delivered with a strong cultural focus,鈥� Ms Ward said.

鈥満诹贤� is committed to achieving this with advice and direction from First Nations communities and by increasing the First Nations workforce within the organisation.鈥�

The new Elder Advocate role is critical in 黑料网鈥檚 efforts to embed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture across the organisation and engage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across Australia.

Dental health is an essential part of wellbeing, particularly for individuals living with diabetes. Among various population groups, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities face unique challenges in maintaining oral health, which can be compounded by the presence of diabetes.

Diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects how the body processes glucose, the preferred fuel source of the brain and body. Sustained high blood glucose levels can weaken blood vessel health, blood flow, and the immune system, compromising oral health. Individuals living with diabetes are more prone to infections, including gum disease (periodontitis). Gum disease, in turn, can make diabetes harder to manage, creating a cyclic relationship between the two health conditions.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities often encounter barriers that impact their oral health; limited access to timely dental care being a primary concern. Factors such as geographical isolation, socioeconomic disparities, cultural safety concerns, and other factors can contribute to reduced access to preventive and curative dental services. This can greatly increase the risk of oral health issues among individuals living with diabetes.

Cultural factors play a significant role in oral health practices. Collaborative efforts are key to ensuring that oral health education is culturally sensitive and tailored to the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Promoting the importance of regular brushing, flossing, and visiting a dentist can be achieved through community engagement, workshops, and informational materials that resonate with the cultural values of the community.

Engaging community leaders and healthcare providers in oral health initiatives can greatly improve dental care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living with diabetes. Mobile dental clinics and telehealth services can bridge the gap in access to care, especially for those living in remote areas. By bringing dental care to the community, these interventions can make oral health services more accessible and convenient.

Integrated healthcare models that combine diabetes and dental care, can lead to better outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Collaborative efforts between Aboriginal Health Workers and Practitioners, diabetes educators and oral health professionals can result in comprehensive care plans that address both conditions. This integrated approach can lead to improved diabetes management and better oral health outcomes.

Access to knowledge and tools are vital for empowering sustainable oral health care. Workshops, seminars, and one-on-one education sessions can help raise awareness about the connection between diabetes and dental health. By understanding the impact of diabetes on oral health, and vice versa, individuals can make informed decisions and adopt oral health promoting behaviours where possible.

and promoting access to affordable culturally safe and sensitive oral health education and services, health care and related teams can work towards improving both oral health and diabetes outcomes. Collaborative efforts involving healthcare providers, community leaders, and the person, and their family, living with diabetes are key to fostering positive change and reducing the burden of diabetes related dental complications for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

For more information on diabetes education for the health workforce and or people living with or at risk of diabetes, please click here for the 黑料网 website or call the NDSS Helpline on 1800 637 700 to speak with a health professional.

Historically, the primary risk factors for type 2 diabetes have been attributed to genetics, ethnicity, sedentary lifestyle, poor dietary choices, and being of a higher weight. However, strong and emerging research has shed light on another significant factor that plays a role in the development and progression of chronic health conditions, including diabetes: stress.

Firstly, it’s important to remember that . Stress triggers the release of stress hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline, which can lead to an increase in blood glucose levels. This response is known as the fight-or-flight reaction, where the body prepares itself for perceived threats. The surge in blood glucose levels prompts the pancreas to release insulin, a hormone responsible for transporting glucose from the bloodstream into cells for energy production such as in the muscles. In individuals living with existing diabetes, this stress-induced rise in blood glucose can pose challenges in managing the condition effectively. However, chronic or long-term stress can have detrimental effects on a person鈥檚 health, including the potential to contribute to the development of diabetes and difficulties preventing complications when living with diabetes.

So, stress can not only exacerbate diabetes but can also increase the risk of developing the condition. Research suggests that long-term exposure to stress hormones can impair insulin’s effectiveness, leading to a condition called insulin resistance. Insulin resistance occurs when cells become less responsive to the hormone’s signals, resulting in higher levels of glucose circulating in the bloodstream. Over time, this can lead to the development of type 2 diabetes, where the body loses its ability to regulate blood glucose effectively. 

Stress can also indirectly influence diabetes risk through its impact on lifestyle factors. When individuals experience chronic stress, they are more likely to engage in coping mechanisms such as excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, over working, overeating, and physical inactivity which can increase the risk of diabetes or make diabetes difficult to manage, leading to a greater risk of diabetes complications.

Furthermore, stress can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to insufficient or poor-quality sleep. Sleep deprivation has been linked to insulin resistance, reduced glucose tolerance, and an increased risk of developing diabetes. The cycle of stress, increased use and reliance on coping mechanisms, disrupted sleep, and impaired glucose regulation creates a fertile ground for the development and progression of diabetes.

Recognising the impact of stress on diabetes risk highlights the importance of stress management support and techniques as part of a comprehensive diabetes prevention and management plan.

Suggestions for reducing stress and improving social and emotional wellbeing

1.  Regular movement: Engaging in , which are natural mood elevators and stress reducers. Regular enjoyable movement such as also helps regulate blood glucose levels and improve insulin sensitivity.

2.  Relaxation techniques: Practices such as , deep breathing, meditation, yoga, and mindfulness have been shown to reduce stress, promote a sense of calm and improve sleep patterns. is a collection of sleep stories created by First Nations storytellers which some might find helpful to improve sleep and or relaxation.

3.  Social support: Connecting with authentic friends, family, and can provide valuable safe spaces for sharing and receiving social and emotional support.

4.  Prioritising self-care: Taking time for activities that bring joy and relaxation, spending time in nature including animals, reading, listening and or playing music, and creating (painting, weaving, knitting, gardening) can help to alleviate and or manage stress and heal.

5. Seeking professional support: In cases where stress becomes overwhelming and starts to impact daily functioning and , seeking help from a mental health professional can provide valuable guidance and support – the GP can help with a referral to a mental health professional.

Looking forward

While some stress is helpful and an unavoidable part of life, understanding the impact of high and sustained levels of stress (current and inter-generational) on physical/metabolic health, particularly its role as a driver of diabetes, is crucial. By recognising the relationship between stress, social and emotional wellbeing, and diabetes, individuals can begin to proactively manage stress levels and adopt management mechanisms that are supportive to strong social and emotional wellbeing. Incorporating stress reduction techniques into one’s daily routine, alongside a restorative sleep pattern, helpful social supports, regular movement, and nutrient-rich food choices, can significantly contribute to preventing and or managing diabetes and improving overall social, emotional, and physical wellbeing.

For more information on diabetes education for the health workforce and or people living with or at risk of diabetes, please click the 黑料网 website here or call the NDSS Helpline on 1800 637 700 to speak with a health professional.

By Robbie Tyson, Credentialled Diabetes Educator and Accredited Practising Dietitian

Diabetes is a chronic health condition affecting millions of people worldwide. Among the many areas of the body affected by diabetes complications, due to sustained high blood glucose levels, the eyes are particularly vulnerable. It is crucial to shed light on the strong link between diabetes and eye health, as well as to emphasise the importance of proactive care and regular eye examinations.

Diabetic retinopathy, a condition caused by damage to the blood vessels in the retina, is the most common eye complication associated with diabetes. When blood glucose levels remain consistently high over time, the tiny blood vessels in the retina can become weak, leak, or even block blood flow altogether. This can lead to vision impairment and, if left untreated, potentially blindness.

Aside from diabetic retinopathy, diabetes can also increase the risk of other eye conditions, such as glaucoma and cataracts. Additionally, people living with diabetes are more prone to developing dry eyes, a condition characterised by inadequate tear production, leading to discomfort, higher risk of eye infections, and potential damage to the cornea.

Early detection and prevention

The good news is that with accessible and good care, the risk and severity of diabetes eye complications can be significantly reduced. Maintaining safe and stable blood glucose levels is essential in safeguarding eye health. Looking after and or getting support for our , taking diabetes medication as prescribed, getting enough sleep and the regular diabetes related health checks, enjoying regular activity and a well-balanced diet, can all help to manage diabetes effectively.

Regular eye examinations play a pivotal role in the early detection of diabetes eye complications. People living with diabetes should have a comprehensive eye examination at least once a year. These exams allow eye care professionals to assess the health of the retina and identify any signs of retinopathy or other diabetes-related eye problems in their early stages. Early intervention can preserve vision and prevent further damage.

is a diabetes eye check reminder program run by 黑料网. It helps people living with diabetes to remember when their eye checks are due. People living with diabetes can join themselves, or ask their eye care provider to sign them up for reminders when they have an eye check. The KeepSight website also provides a to help people find an eye care provider near them.

Health care professionals who would like to work with KeepSight to encourage their patients to have regular diabetes eye checks and increase service or practice recall, can become a KeepSight partner. For more information contact: support@keepsight.org.au.

Health-supportive Lifestyle Behaviours and Care = Healthy Eyes:

In addition to medical management and regular eye check-ups, adopting health-supportive lifestyle behaviours can help overall eye health for people living with diabetes:

1. Stopping or reducing smoking: Smoking significantly increases the risk of developing diabetic retinopathy. Quitting smoking is an important step toward protecting blood vessels, and improving both general and eye health
2. Blood pressure and cholesterol management: High blood pressure and cholesterol levels aren鈥檛 great for blood vessel health, and can worsen eye problems for people living with diabetes. Taking blood pressure and cholesterol medications if prescribed, quitting smoking, moving regularly and enjoying whole foods can help to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels
3. Regular exercise: Regular exercise helps manage blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol levels and reduces the risk of diabetes eye complications, along with improves circulation and mood
4. Nutrient rich eating pattern: Enjoying where possible a diet rich in whole foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean meats/meat alternatives, milk and yoghurt, helps maintain a healthy mind and body including immune system. Including foods rich in antioxidants, such as dark leafy greens, berries, and nuts, can help protect the eyes from damage caused by oxidative stress

The importance of looking after our eyes when living with diabetes can鈥檛 be understated. Awareness, prevention, and proactive diabetes management and care, saves vision. By managing diabetes effectively, maintaining safe and stable blood glucose levels, and having regular eye examinations, people living with diabetes can prevent or slow diabetes-related vision loss. Incorporating health-supportive lifestyle behaviours where possible, including good sleep patterns and behaviours and care that support social emotional wellbeing, a nutritious diet and regular activity, further supports good eye health.

For more information on diabetes education for the health workforce and or people living with or at risk of diabetes, please head to the 黑料网 website here or call the NDSS Helpline on 1800 637 700 to speak with a health professional.

The Menzies School of Health-led , which includes 黑料网, has been recognised by one of the world鈥檚 leading medical journals as an example of best practice to improve diabetes in minority ethnic groups.

The Lancet is this week publishing Addressing Global Inequity in Diabetes: International Progress as part of a series on diabetes research. The paper highlights best practice approaches to achieve equity in diabetes care and outcomes.

It chose as the best practice case study to show how to effectively 鈥渃hange the ecosystem鈥�. 黑料网 works collaboratively with the program.

The Partnership was selected because it applies research recommendations and equity principles to real-world situations related to diabetes among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, including the developing diabetes in Australia. It addresses structural inequity and its consequences by looking at changes in policy, social systems, and the environment to improve diabetes care and outcomes.

Recent Menzies research across northern and central Australia has found the youngest youth-onset type 2 diabetes diagnosis was a 4-year-old. The highest prevalence of diabetes (3.1%) among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth aged under 25 years was in females aged 15 to 24 years in central Australia, with with type 2 diabetes. Those higher rates of youth-onset type 2 diabetes contribute to high rates of pre-gestational diabetes, which is up to 8.4% in pregnant Aboriginal women in central Australia.

The study highlighted that as a result of the widening diabetes inequity, Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities experience significant and premature morbidity and mortality from type 2 diabetes and its complications. In 2021, diabetes-related mortality and hospitalisation rates were more than 4 times higher among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people than non-Indigenous Australians. The median age of death was 62.5 years compared to 82.2 years for the general Australian population, with cardiovascular disease and diabetes among the two leading causes of death.

Co-authors of the Lancet diabetes series, the Menzies School of Health鈥檚 Professor Louise Maple-Brown and Sian Graham, found that structural racism and geographic inequity are accelerating the soaring global rates of diabetes, which is outpacing most chronic conditions around the world.

Prof Maple-Brown said they were delighted and honoured to see more than a decade of work through The Partnership acknowledged on the international stage.

鈥淭he Partnership strives to address diabetes inequity in the real world by raising the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with lived experience of type 2 diabetes, thinking about their larger social context and addressing structural inequity.鈥�

鈥淭hese ways of working allow us to create sustainable and equitable change in diabetes in our own backyard and around the world,鈥� Prof Maple-Brown said.

The Lancet series is in response to a call by the 2020 Lancet Diabetes Commission and the World Health Organisation Global Diabetes Compact to reduce diabetes. It draws attention to the growing number of people developing diabetes, despite increased awareness and ongoing efforts to relieve this trend.

Type 2 diabetes is a serious health issue affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people at a much higher rate than non-Indigenous Australians. According to the , Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are three times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes compared to non-Indigenous Australians. The reasons for this are complex and many, but one crucial factor is the lack of access to quality healthcare. 

To address this health gap, the Australian Government introduced the . The 715 health check is a comprehensive health assessment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, which includes an assessment of diabetes risk factors. The 715 health check is free of charge and can be accessed by all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 15 years and over. 

This article explores the 715 free health check and how it can be used to help prevent and detect diabetes.

What is the 715 health check?

The 715 health check is a really important tool for preventing diabetes. The assessment identifies risk factors such as high blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose levels. Early detection of these risk factors can lead to earlier treatment, care and support, including health behaviour change 鈥渓ifestyle modification鈥� support and guidance from a doctor and other health professionals. Support could include working with the person at risk of diabetes on what they feel they can start working towards to prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes. Such as improving or increasing life-enhancing stress management behaviours and assistance e.g. carving out more time to enjoy physical activity each week and or seeking more specific social and emotional wellbeing support around social stressors e.g. housing. 

Did you know? 

• Having a yearly 715 health check is free and takes around 45-60 minutes to complete 
• The 715 health check has been tailored for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 15 years and up 
• Having a 715 health check will help the person to manage their health and prevent chronic diseases 
• Having a 715 health check also gives the person access to additional bulk-billed allied health services (including podiatry, physiotherapy, dietitians and more) 

In addition to diabetes prevention, the 715 health check also addresses other health issues affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, including cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, and mental health. The assessment includes a physical examination, blood tests, and other health assessments, as well as an opportunity to discuss any health concerns with a health worker. 

Despite the importance of the 715 health check, uptake of this health check isn鈥檛 ideal. The , no doubt COVID-19 played a part.

To address this issue, the Australian government has launched various initiatives to increase the uptake of the 715 health check. These initiatives include culturally appropriate education and awareness programs, funding for healthcare providers to deliver the 715 health check, and incentives for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians to attend the health check. 

The 715 health check is a potentially powerful tool for diabetes prevention and the overall health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Early detection of diabetes risk factors through the 715 health check can lead to earlier interventions, which can prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes. It is crucial that all eligible Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples access the 715 health check, and by working together, health workers and healthcare providers can ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people receive the care and support they need to live healthy, empowered and fulfilling lives.   

For more鈥痠nformation on diabetes education for the health workforce and or people living with or at risk of diabetes, please head to the鈥诹贤� website here or鈥痗all the NDSS Helpline on 1800 637 700鈥�to speak with a health professional. 

By Robbie Tyson, Credentialled Diabetes Educator